On Oratory and Orators

The foundational work on persuasion. Aristotle explains ethos, pathos, and logos, how to build arguments, and how to adapt a speech to its audience, in the classic W. Rhys Roberts translation.

Aristotle

Plato's dialogue on the power and limits of rhetoric. Socrates asks whether persuasion without knowledge is a true art or mere flattery, in Benjamin Jowett's translation with introduction.

Plato

An academic collection on how persuasion works in politics, advertising, and the media. Linguists analyze real public discourse to reveal the language and framing strategies used to change minds.

Jana Pelclová and Wei-lun Lu

A practical guide to spotting and analyzing persuasive techniques in the media, from emotional appeals to tone. Includes annotated examples, cartoon analysis, and writing activities.

IP Awareness Foundation